Aegis Weapon System

An area defense system for U.S. naval battle groups that is capable of simultaneous engagement on air, surface, and subsurface fronts. The AEGIS weapon system's wide altitude range allows it to target submarines and aircraft flying at speeds from subsonic to supersonic. The system also has all-weather capabilities and can function in chaff and jamming conditions.

Recognizing the increased threat of modern antiship missiles, the U.S. Navy designed the Advanced Surface Missile System (ASMS) during the late 1960s. In 1969, the navy changed the name of the system to AEGIS (named for the shield carried by the Greek god Zeus). The complex systems of the AEGIS required special operations and management in mechanical and electrical systems, maintenance and repair, computer programs, personnel records, and tactical operation documentation. This led to the formation of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA PMS-400) in 1977, which unified the AEGIS multimission surface combat groups.

The nucleus of the AEGIS system is the AN/SPY-1 radar. This multifunctional phased-array radar can automatically detect and track more than 100 targets simultaneously. The radar's high-powered missile guidance capabilities allow destroyers and cruisers to assume a greater role in the defense of the battle group while fighter aircraft focus on outer air battles. In addition, the AEGIS system's high level of accuracy decreases the overexpenditure of other tactical assets. As of 2005, the total cost of the AEGIS system was $42.7 billion, which includes $22.2 billion for operations and support.